Every month during the summer, Canyon Creek hosts two comedians for nights of laughter that’s become a must-attend event in the downtown Montrose entertainment scene.

Opening the Aug. 2 event is Hilder, who was born and raised in the comedic hotbed of Salt Lake City, Utah. As a child, he annoyed friends, family, and teachers with his endless attempts to make those around him laugh. Through the years, Hilder’s love of connecting with, and entertaining people through comedy only grew, and in 2004 he moved to Las Vegas, Nev. to pursue a life in comedy.

Hilder’s whose stand-up career began in some of the worst bars and clubs Las Vegas had to offer. , but with his quirky wit, unparalleled originality and fearless attitude on stage, he quickly rose above the fray to become one of the most respected local comedians in the city.

JOHN HILDER (Courtesy photo)

In 2006 Hilder was featured in a Las Vegas Weekly cover story covering local comedy in Las Vegas. Hew was also a contributing writer and featured member of the “Las Vegas Laughs Street Team” on the FOX television affiliate in Las Vegas in 2006. Hilder also produced, ran, and performed in several successful comedy shows in Las Vegas, including a show he organized in late 2007 that was sponsored by HBO’s “Comedy Festival.” In January of 2010 John released his first full length CD entitled Johnsense.Hilder’s unique view of the world and cynical, yet goofy attitude has made him a favorite in casinos all over the Las Vegas Strip, and in clubs and colleges throughout the country.

Headlining the Aug. 2 evening of comedy is Francis, who began his career at 10 years old by sending a dime to an ad in a comic book. His father helped him build my first puppet out of papier-mache and he was off to the races. At age 26, he turned professional and spent several years turning jokes from his crazy friends, music from his background and these “life-sized” puppets into a wacky romp thru the imagination! “Over the years, Wingnut and I have been fortunate to sail the seas on cruise ships,” Francis says, of his adventures with Wingnut. “We made it completely around the world entertaining aboard Princess and Seven Seas cruise Lines. What an adventure!”

The duo also entertained in comedy clubs from coast to coast including: Comedy Magic Club, Hermosa Beach, Calif.; Comedy Works in Denver, Improve in Texas and many others.